How Much Does Cavitation Surgery Cost?

Last Updated on February 4, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Cavitation surgery is a procedure done to treat cavitations or holes in the jawbone. Cavitations often develop after tooth extractions and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the cost of cavitation surgery.

How Much Does Cavitation Surgery Cost?

On average, the cost of cavitation surgery ranges from $600 to $2,500 per site. However, prices can be higher or lower. For a single tooth site, the surgery costs between $1,000 to $1,500. For treating multiple cavitations in full mouth revision, total fees range from $2,000 to $4,000.

Here’s how cavitation surgery costs compare to other common dental procedures:

• Dental crown – $500 to $3,000 per tooth
• Dental implant – $3,000 to $6,000 per implant
• Root canal – $300 to $2,000 per canal
• Tooth extraction – $75 to $600 per tooth

So, you can expect to pay around the same price as a dental implant for cavitation treatment on one site. The more areas needing treatment, the higher the total cost.

Weston A. Price Foundation notes that the cost for cavitation surgery can range between $900-$1,200 per site depending on the dentist and the labs used for analysis.

Meghan Birt shared her story on her blog where she mentioned that the cost for cavitation surgery can be $500 per cavitation site.

What is Cavitation Surgery?

Cavitation surgery is a procedure done to clean out cavitations, or areas of infection, in the jawbone. Cavitations form after tooth extractions or trauma when the blood supply to the tooth socket is damaged. This leads to the death of the bone tissue and creates a hole, or cavity, in the jawbone.

Cavitations are breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and can spread infection to other areas of the body. Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, sinus issues, and more. Cavitation surgery removes infected tissue and debris from the bone cavity to allow healing.

Why is Cavitation Surgery Important?

Addressing cavitations is crucial for stopping the spread of bacteria and relieving related symptoms. Research shows cavitations are associated with a wide range of health issues like chronic fatigue, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and cardiovascular disease.

Getting cavitation surgery eliminates these infected areas in the jawbone and improves overall wellness. It can also prevent the cavitation from worsening over time and requiring more extensive treatment.

The Cavitation Surgery Procedure

Cavitation surgery is done under local anesthesia in a dental office. The surgeon will make an incision in the gums to access the cavitation site and use small dental instruments to thoroughly clean out infected tissue, bacteria, and debris. Sometimes lasers or ultrasound devices are used as well.

Once cleaned, the surgeon may place bone grafting material to encourage healing and new bone growth. Finally, the gums are stitched closed over the surgery site. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours. Patients are given antibiotics and pain medication afterwards.

There are a few different types of cavitation surgeries:

• Standard surgery – Removal of infected tissue from a single cavitation site.
• Full mouth revision – Cleaning multiple cavitation sites in one surgery session.
• Bone grafting – Placing bone graft material to regrow lost jawbone.
• PRF therapy – Using platelet-rich fibrin to accelerate healing.

The type of surgery needed depends on the extent of infection and number of cavitation sites.

What Impacts the Cost of Cavitation Surgery?

Several factors affect the overall price of cavitation treatment:

Location – Costs are higher in major metro areas versus rural areas. Surgery in a big city can be $1000+ more.

Individual Surgeon – More experienced surgeons often charge higher fees.

Extent of Infection – Treating multiple cavitations or larger lesions costs more.

Bone Grafting – Grafting to regrow lost bone tissue adds cost.

Anesthesia – General anesthesia instead of local anesthesia has an additional fee.

Clinic Overhead – Fancy clinics in prime locations charge more.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Cavitation Surgery?

Unfortunately, dental insurance rarely covers the cost of cavitation surgery. This procedure is viewed as medically unnecessary by insurance companies since it treats jawbone infections versus dental decay.

However, you may get partial coverage if done by an oral surgeon versus general dentist. Often about 50% coverage is possible through medical insurance in that case.

For uninsured patients, many dental clinics offer payment plans and financing to break up the cost into more affordable monthly payments. Medical credit cards through CareCredit are also an option.

Tips for Affording Cavitation Surgery

Here are some tips to budget and plan for the cost of cavitation treatment:

• Shop around for pricing to find affordable options in your area.
• Ask about discounts for paying with cash versus financing.
• Use tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to save for medical costs.
• Find clinics offering 0% interest financing over 6-12 months.
• Consider dental schools with reduced pricing for patients.
• Travel abroad for up to 50% savings on surgical costs.
• Divide costs across calendar years to maximize insurance benefits.

Financing through the clinic or third-party medical lenders like CareCredit can make costs more manageable through fixed monthly payments.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon and Clinic

Make sure to do your research to find an experienced cavitation surgeon. Here are important factors to consider:

• Specialized training and expertise in cavitation surgery. Look for a dentist with advanced certification.
• Oral surgery credentials for extensive cavitation cases. oral surgeons have more training.
• A focus on biological dentistry for a holistic approach.
• Great reviews and testimonials from past patients.
• A dental clinic with advanced technology like laser tools, CBCT imaging, and digital x-rays.
• A conveniently located office for follow-up appointments.

Take time to consult with a few potential surgeons. Make sure you feel confident in their experience with cavitation surgery specifically.

For most patients, the cost is well worth finally resolving chronic symptoms and jaw pain after suffering for years. But carefully research surgeons to get the best value and outcome.

Post-Surgery Care and Follow-Up Costs

While the initial surgery is the biggest investment, there are some follow-up costs to consider during recovery:

• Antibiotics – Approximately $15-$30 for a course of antibiotics.
• Anti-inflammatories – Over-the-counter meds for swelling at around $10-$15.
• Pain medication – Prescription pain pills average $10-$20.
• Soft diet – 2-4 weeks of soft foods like yogurt, soup broths, apple sauce.
• Follow-up x-rays – Check sites at around $100 per x-ray.
• Additional procedures – A small percentage may need revision surgery or bone grafts.

Follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions closely to support healing and minimize any recurring costs. Nutritious soft foods, oral hygiene, and medication adherence are key.

Final Words

While cavitation surgery represents a significant dental investment, the benefits for your health make it worthwhile. Carefully research surgeons and clinics to find affordable pricing and excellent care.

Financing options and medical savings accounts can make costs more manageable. For extensive cavitation cases, medical insurance may provide partial coverage when performed by an oral surgeon.

Consider cavitation surgery an investment in your overall well-being. A healthier jaw and body are priceless.

FAQs About Cavitation Surgery

What are the risks of cavitation surgery?

Some potential risks and complications include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Post-op infection of the surgery site
• Damage to nerves or sinus cavity
• Chronic pain or numbness
• Allergic reaction to anesthetic
• Slow healing of the surgical site

However, risks are low with an experienced surgeon. Follow all pre and post-op instructions to minimize risks.

Can you heal cavitation without surgery?

Some natural approaches may help small cavities, but larger lesions or extensive infection require surgery for complete healing. Some natural supplements like vitamin D, C, or K2 may support jawbone health but are not a substitute for professional treatment of advanced cavitation disease.

How do you know if you have cavitation?

Signs you may have a cavitation include:

• Chronic jaw, tooth, or sinus pain on one side
• Headaches or migraines
• Teeth sensitivity to hot/cold
• Bad breath or putrid taste in the mouth
• Fatigue, brain fog, or memory issues
• Numbness or swelling in the jaw

Diagnostic testing needed to confirm cavities includes dental x-rays, CT scans, thermography, and cavitat ultrasound tests. Consult a biological dentist if you have any of these persistent symptoms. Proper testing can detect cavitations before they progress.